Cameroon’s long-serving leader, Paul Biya, has been sworn in for another seven-year term at the country’s parliament in Yaoundé. The 92-year-old president, who has ruled the nation for 43 years, secured a controversial victory in last month’s election that has sparked widespread criticism and unrest.
According to official results, Biya won 54% of the vote, while his main challenger, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, obtained 35%. Bakary, a former information minister who broke ranks with Biya, has rejected the results, alleging massive electoral fraud. The government, however, insists the election was free and fair.
The disputed outcome led to violent protests in several cities. While authorities reported four deaths, Reuters, citing two United Nations sources, said the number of casualties could be as high as 48. Judges on the Constitutional Council dismissed eight petitions challenging the results, stating that the complaints lacked sufficient evidence or were beyond their jurisdiction.
Observers have raised concerns over the transparency of the electoral process, noting that Biya made only one public appearance during the campaign period. Critics argue that his prolonged stay in power has weakened democratic institutions and suppressed dissent.
Earlier this week, Bakary called for a nationwide stay-at-home protest, which saw deserted streets in key cities such as Garoua and Douala, particularly in his strongholds. Despite the mounting tension, Bakary has declined to file a formal legal complaint against the results.
As Biya embarks on his eighth term, many Cameroonians remain divided over the future of their nation. Supporters hail his leadership as a source of stability, while opponents see his extended rule as a symbol of stagnation and authoritarianism.
